Russia

Russia, the world’s largest country, is a vast expanse of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Moscow, the capital, is a juxtaposition of historic grandeur and modern sophistication. The iconic Red Square is surrounded by architectural marvels like the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Cathedral, while the contemporary art scene thrives in galleries such as the Garage Museum. St. Petersburg, often called the “Venice of the North,” boasts opulent palaces, including the Hermitage Museum, housing an unparalleled collection of art. The city’s intricate network of canals adds to its romantic allure.

Beyond the urban centres, Russia’s natural beauty unfolds in destinations like the Trans-Siberian Railway, the longest train journey in the world. It traverses landscapes ranging from the Ural Mountains to the Siberian taiga, providing glimpses of rural life and the vastness of the country. The Golden Ring, a collection of ancient towns surrounding Moscow, immerses visitors in Russia’s historical roots with its well-preserved architecture and artisan crafts. Lake Baikal, the deepest freshwater lake globally, captivates with its crystal-clear waters and endemic wildlife, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Russian cuisine, with its hearty flavours, reflects the country’s diverse regions. Blini, borscht, and pelmeni are staples, and sampling them in local eateries provides an authentic taste of Russian gastronomy. Whether exploring the cultural treasures of cities, embarking on an epic train journey, or embracing the tranquillity of natural wonders, Russia offers an immersive experience that transcends the boundaries of its vast landscapes and deep-rooted history.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

SUMMER – Great for the beach!
SPRING & AUTUMN – Great for exploring, city breaks, and beach breaks in the Canaries.
WINTER – The Canary Islands are a great option for Winter Sun!

FLIGHT TIME

Between 2-3 hours for Mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands, 4 hours for the Canary Islands

TIME ZONE

GMT/BST +1

CURRENCY

Euros

IDEAL FOR

There is something for everyone in Spain. Great food, architecture, music, scenery and the priority for many great beach resorts.

HOW TO GET THERE

Flights are available to a number of cities and resorts in Spain from most UK airports, especially Barcelona, Palma (Mallorca), Malaga, Alicante and Tenerife. Its possible to travel by train, via France to Barcelona.

LANGUAGE

Spanish, with various dialects – most notably Catalan. Although English is widely spoken in most areas, especially in coastal resorts.

IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH

Combine stays with a city and then the beach – Barcelona and the Balearics, Seville and the Andalusian coast, or the historic centre of Spain.